NORTHWEST FAMILIES.

Buffalo Grove theater steps into a `Cabaret'

Park District takes chance on bawdy Nazi-era musical

Buffalo Grove Park District Fine Arts is stretching its artistic boundaries in its production of "Cabaret."

With its risque underpinnings and controversial topics, including the rise of Nazism in pre-World War II Berlin, "Cabaret" has been viewed as one of Broadway's more daring musicals.

There was some concern among the production's organizers that the subject matter might keep people away.

But the community theater group decided that the songs, energy and message were worth performing for its ninth annual summer musical.

"It's a well-refined production with a whole lot of energy. It's also hard-hitting and touches upon a heavy subject," said Jack Lampert, who stars as emcee of the Kit Kat Klub. Cari Lynn Reporto, assistant fine arts coordinator, said the performance may hit a nerve, but in an inspirational way.

"I think our Jewish community might be hesitant to see the performance, due to its content--similar to those who preferred not to see `Schindler's List'--and reliving the horror of the time," Reporto said.

But, she said, "although it is a turbulent time period, we are currently living in turbulent times.

"While there are tense moments [in the production], I think the community will leave with a sense of truly having been entertained."

The 28-member cast was chosen from more than 87 actors from Indiana to McHenry.

Lampert has directed for the program for six years and has returned to the stage after 27 years. He said he jumped at the opportunity to play the eccentric, elderlymaster of ceremonies, a contrast to Broadway's young and audacious character.

In the story, the emcee guarantees a great nightly show to escape the troubles of the time. The seedy Berlin nightclub offers a sanctuary for the entertainers and staff living in moral ambiguity as the Nazis grow into a brutal force.

Alexis Armstrong of Chicago stars as nightclub entertainer Sally Bowles. The character, like the musical, depicts "the paradox of the times," she said. "`Cabaret' runs the gamut from extremely emotionally disturbing to lots of sexy fun."

"Cabaret," directed by Scott Rosengarden, will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday in Stevenson High School, 1 Stevenson Drive, Lincolnshire. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and children under 12. Call Buffalo Grove Park District Fine Arts at 847-850-2145.